Derby County boss Frank Lampard has confirmed that left-back Craig Forsyth has suffered a cruciate ligament injury that will keep him out for the foreseeable future.

The 29-year-old, who has had the same injury twice before, was taken off late into the 3-0 defeat against Aston Villa.

And, Lampard confirmed to the official site this evening that it was the news they were fearing, with the Scotland international set for a long lay-off:

"With Craig Forsyth, it’s an ACL injury to his left knee. We know Craig’s history here and he’s had two previous injuries on his other knee playing for Derby and that’s why it is frustrating for him."

The former Watford man had established himself as the first-choice under Lampard with strong competition from Scott Malone.

Therefore, this is a major blow for the Rams and it might force the manager to search for a replacement in the January window to beef up the squad.

Here we look at TWO players who should be on Derby's radar in the winter window...

This would be an ambitious move but the player isn't getting games at Southampton and would surely love the chance to play regularly elsewhere.

Targett was a key player for Fulham as they won promotion last season and has proven he can star at this level.

A loan is the only realistic way he could arrive at Pride Park, but it would be a major signing for the side.

The Brentford full-back is out of contract at the end of the season so could be available at a cut-price in January.

He would be another safe option for the Rams as he's been a steady performer for the Bees over the years and would provide Malone with real competition.

However, several Championship sides have been linked with the 25-year-old, so it could be a battle for his signature.

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